London : S. D. Frances, [1949]. First edition. A scarce “first series” Janson title set in Hollywood – the action switching from studio to marijuana den, and with intimations of the making of a snuff movie. The artwork is here by “Ferrari” (Philip Montague Mendoza) rather than Heade – but still in blonde, body, gun, vein. The novel became the subject of twenty-seven destruction orders by various local authorities (Holland p.322). Later republished under the Alexander Moring imprint as “Situation – Grave!” in 1958. Crown 8vo (18cm). 128pp. Original pictorial stapled wrappers; minor wear at head; a few small creases to upper wrapper; very slightly rumpled, but a very good copy. Neat bookseller’s stamp of James Preston of 25 Blakey Moor, Blackburn on lower wrapper. Just two copies (British Library and Trinity College, Dublin) located in major libraries worldwide. Williams & Holland 9.

£75

To purchase, call us or e-mail us at books@ashrare.com quoting stock number 30310 – or simply click on the button

London : Scion, (1951). First edition. Young provincial Martin Clegg has long suspected he has a twin in the constellation of Orion – girlfriend and psychiatrist are sceptical. Crown 8vo (19cm). 128pp. Original pictorial stapled wrappers in a design by “Zero” (Philip Montague Mendoza); described as being in “near fine bright condition” by the Long Island “specialist” from whom I bought it – but it’s not: spine tanned and worn; faint price over-stamped on upper wrapper; lower wrapper and title-page discoloured at edges by badly rusted staples; text a little tanned; a serviceable copy only. Three copies (Bodleian, Liverpool and National Library of Scotland) located in the major UK libraries.

£20

To purchase, call us or e-mail us at books@ashrare.com quoting stock number 30145 – or simply click on the button

“STATTEN, Vargo” – [FEARN, John Russell, 1908-1960] : THE INTERLOPER.

London : Scion, (1953). First edition. “The scare headlines concerning the possibility of a tri-planetary war between Earth, Mars, and Venus, came to a head on July 9, 1987. On this date diplomatic relations with Venus ceased to exist and Ambassador Kenneth Hargraves made the 60-million mile journey home ...”. Crown 8vo (19cm). 128pp. Original pictorial stapled wrappers – a striking design by “Ferrari” (Philip Montague Mendoza); a little worn, creased and slightly frayed; chipped at tips, with short tear at foot; staples rusted; a reasonable copy. Just two copies (Liverpool and National Library of Scotland) located in major UK libraries.